Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) for RPII level 3
︱About RPII and the Qualification
Q1：Who are the RPII (Register of Play Inspectors International) and what do they do?
The Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII) is the official UK-based professional body responsible for examining, accrediting and certificating inspectors for inflatable, indoor and outdoor play areas. The RPII also accredits training courses to ensure that playground safety standards are strictly maintained worldwide, offering safe environments for children.
Q2：What is an Outdoor Annual Playground Inspection?
An Outdoor Annual Playground Inspection is carried out by a qualified and independent inspector who is not involved in the management or operation of the playground. The inspection includes:
- Assessing the condition of playground equipment
- Checking safety surfacing
- Reviewing the surrounding environment
A detailed written report is then provided, including a risk assessment. This report evaluates whether the playground complies with current safety standards and identifies any non-compliant items or areas.
Q3：What qualifications should I look for in a playground inspector?
For annual and post-installation inspections, you should appoint an inspector certified at the RPII Annual level. All RPII Annual Inspectors are able to provide proof of certification, including:
- A valid certificate
- An identification badge (with DBS number)
If required, you may verify their status through the official RPII website: https://www.playinspectors.com/our-inspectors/outdoor-annual/
RPII classifies inspectors into three levels:
- Routine Inspector
- Operational Inspector
- Annual Inspector
It is important to select the appropriate level of inspector, as the expertise required differs significantly between levels.
Q4：Am I eligible to enrol in this course?
This course is intended for professionals responsible for developing, managing or maintaining playground safety, including those working in:
- Parks
- Schools
- Hotels
- Housing estates
- Campsites
- Residential complexes
Applicants should have:
- Practical knowledge of playground inspections (e.g. conducting inspections and preparing reports)
- Experience in carrying out regular operational inspections (recommended)
- Familiarity with all current applicable safety standards
- An understanding of how children use playgrounds and the legal responsibilities of playground operators
Q5：Who is responsible for selecting applicants? Will there be an interview?
Applications are reviewed and selected by the RPII Board.
There is no interview process.
Q6：Is there a waiting list for applicants? How will I be notified?
Yes, a waiting list will be maintained for qualified applicants if the course reaches capacity. All applicants will be officially informed of their application results on the announcement day, 10 AUG 2026, through email.
︱About the course
Q7：What is the medium of instruction?
The medium of instruction is English, including all teaching materials.
Q8：What is the duration of the course? Are all sessions conducted online?
No, the course uses a blended learning model combining both online and in-person sessions.
An online preparatory session will be held in Mid October 2026, and the course will officially commence on 30 October 2026. The course begins with a three-day introductory session in person in Hong Kong, followed by a series of online seminars and workshops from November 2026 to February 2027. An intensive in-person review session will take place in February 2027, followed by the written and practical assessments.
Please refer to the course schedule for full details.
Q9：What does the syllabus cover? Which standards are included in the course?
The course covers the following standards in detail:
- EN 1176
- EN 16630
- EN 15312
- EN 14874
- EN 16899
- EN 16879
Each standard is examined clause by clause, with explanations of both compliance and non-compliance across a variety of equipment types. Where appropriate, the rationale behind each clause is also explained to support a deeper understanding of its purpose.
Candidates will also study:
- Safe use and maintenance practices
- Risk assessment
- Common repair methods and their effectiveness
- Typical materials used in playground equipment (with reference to the materials modules)
Q10: Are the safety standards (BS EN 1176, etc.) provided as part of the course materials?
No. Due to copyright restrictions, official copies of the EN standards cannot be distributed to candidates. However, comprehensive course handbooks, summaries, and excerpted training materials covering all relevant clauses will be provided to support your learning.
Q11：Will I learn how to use probes and other inspection tools during the course?
Yes. Candidates will learn how to use inspection probes and other tools, as specified in the relevant standards, to assess playground equipment and play environments.
Q12：Do I need to purchase a set of EN standard inspection tools to attend the course?
No. The local course organiser (Playright) will provide a set of EN standard inspection tools for participants to borrow, subject to prior arrangement, for study or practice.
During the examination, a full set of inspection tools will be provided by the examiner for candidates to use.
Q13. Are there any physical requirements for the course?
Yes. As the course includes practical inspection activities, participants should be able to:
- Access and assess playground equipment
- Conduct inspections in outdoor environments
Suitable clothing and footwear are recommended for practical sessions.
Q14：Can non-local applicants apply for the course?
Yes, overseas applications are accepted. However, please note that all face-to-face sessions, including the written and practical examinations, will be conducted in Hong Kong.
Candidates are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation.
Q15: What is the policy regarding course withdrawals, cancellations, or refunds?
Once an application is accepted and payment is processed, fees are generally non-refundable and non-transferable. If you need to withdraw due to exceptional circumstances (such as medical emergencies), please contact the Anne Marden Playright Academy in writing as early as possible for case-by-case review.
︱About the Examination
Q16：How long is the written examination for each candidate?
The written examination is conducted in a single session of 3.5 hours. No reference materials are permitted during the examination, as it is a closed-book assessment.
Q17：What topics are covered in the examination?
The examination is divided into eight sections, all of which are included in the course syllabus. To pass the examination, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 70% in each section.
The sections are as follows:
- Playground equipment
- Skateparks
- Free-access multi-sports equipment
- Parkour
- Outdoor fitness equipment
- Natural play and non-standard equipment
- General knowledge
- Children’s play
Q18：What does the practical examination involve?
The practical on-site assessment is conducted individually. Candidates must not seek external assistance during the assessment; however, they may refer to standards, notes or other materials they have brought with them. The assessment involves a real-world inspection of a complete playground and other recreational facilities.
Candidates are required to:
- Inspect equipment, surfaces and ancillary items
- Submit a written report which must include:
- Compliance
- Safety
- Risk assessments
- Recommendations etc.
Candidates will be assessed on their ability to carry out a thorough and logical inspection, with appropriate reference to relevant standards.
In addition, candidates will be assessed on their knowledge and use of inspection tools specified within the standards, including:
- Probes
- Test templates
- Finger rods
- Toggle testers
- Ring gauges
Q19：Is there an opportunity to re-sit the examination?
Yes, a resit option is now available for the written examination, subject to the local course organiser's (Playright) arrangements and availability. Details regarding eligibility, scheduling and any applicable fees will be provided to candidates as appropriate.
Q20: What happens if I pass one part of the examination but fail the other?
If you pass either the written or practical assessment but do not pass the other, your passing score will be held on record. You will only be required to resit the specific part of the examination that you did not pass, subject to the local course organiser's (Playright) scheduling and arrangements.